We were lucky to catch up with Oren Yaacoby recently and have shared our conversation below.

Oren, appreciate you joining us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

The kindest thing someone has ever done for me came right after my graduation from Berklee College of Music in 2014. I was at a major crossroads, unsure of what to do next, when I received an email from an Israeli living in Los Angeles. Despite his profession as an accountant, he had connections in the film and music industry and shared a guitar teacher with me back in Israel. He invited me to stay with his family while I found my footing and introduced me to a vast network of industry professionals. One of these connections led me to meet a music editor who offered me a significant opportunity by hiring me as her assistant. This wasn’t just about landing a job; it was an opportunity to immerse myself in the world of music editing, where I gained invaluable experience and discovered my true calling. The kindness and support I received during this period have profoundly shaped my career and life.

Oren, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As a music editor, I collaborate closely with film directors and editors to bring their musical visions to life. My work begins in the editing phase, creating temporary scores from existing soundtracks to set the film’s emotional and dramatic tone. These temporary scores are crucial for composers, aiding them in crafting original scores that align perfectly with the film’s needs. Additionally, I oversee the integration and adaptation of songs throughout all stages of film editing, ensuring a seamless auditory experience from start to finish.

Beyond editing, I’m also a guitarist, contributing my skills to film scores and savoring the thrill of live performances. In 2017, I co-founded ‘Karaoke Time Machines,’ a venture that offers live band karaoke experiences, allowing audiences to perform their favorite songs across different genres and eras. This initiative not only fulfills my creative desires but also spreads joy and entertainment, making people feel like rockstars for five whole minutes, aligning with my mission to make others happy through music.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

A pivotal moment in my career occurred in 2008 while I was working as a delivery guy at a spaghetti restaurant. My friend from Israel often reminds me of when I declared that I would pursue my passion for music exclusively from that point forward. This decision led me to teach guitar, work in recording studios, and eventually attend Berklee College of Music in Boston. My transition to focusing solely on music, including my editing career and live band karaoke business, was driven by my love for music, movies, and technology. The unwavering support from my family and a firm belief in my path were instrumental in this life-changing pivot, laying the groundwork for my future successes.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

At the heart of all my creative endeavors is a deeply rooted goal: to bring happiness to others. Whether I’m fine-tuning a film’s score or igniting the stage with live performances, the satisfaction and enjoyment of my audience and collaborators are my utmost priorities. In music editing, I’m committed to fulfilling the director’s and editor’s vision, welcoming their feedback with open arms. That’s why receiving notes on my work is part of the process I embrace. Similarly, during live shows, it’s not about executing each note flawlessly; it’s about delivering an energetic and engaging performance that encourages the audience to dance and have an unforgettable time. This mission to spread joy through my work is what drives me every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.karaoketimemachines.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karaoketimemachines/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karaoketimemachines/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkzzREjGZZgjMwBWEgZx8-Q
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6546692/

Image Credits
Lali Elinor